German-AmericanCultural
Center and Museum Hours: Wed-Sat 10 am - 3 pm

Willkommen

The German-American Cultural Center

Located in the heart of Gretnas National Register Historic District, settled by
German immigrants in the mid-1880s, the German-American Cultural Center (GACC) celebrated
its 10th anniversary on June 30, 2009. The GACC interprets the unique German immigrant
contribution to Louisianas history through exhibits, lectures, programs, and other
educational activities. Exhibits depict the colonial experience, immigration, world of
work, culture, religion. An additional exhibit panel features *culture in crisis* during
the two world wars. The GACC sponsors special events with a Maifest on the grounds outside
the Center and an Oktoberfest Bier Garten as part of the Gretna Heritage Festivals three
day event during the first weekend of October each year. The GACC is supported and
operated through memberships in the Friends of the German-American Cultural Center and
other fundraising activities.

The Friends of the GACC

The Friends of the GACC is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote and
support the German-American Cultural Center. Contributions, both monetary and volunteer
hours, will help support the preservation and education of our rich German heritage in
Louisiana.

Historical Background

Germans have played a major role in the development o Louisiana ever since they settled
the German Coast or La Cote des Allemands, about 36 miles above New Orleans in 1721. They
were contracted by John Law t colonize Louisiana after the Duc d?Orleans, Regent of
France, granted law permission to charter the Company of the West. The German farmers
endured many hardships. Their produce fed the emerging City of New Orleans. The original
Germans were absorbed into the French culture and their names were changed from Heidel to
Haydel, Himmel to Hymel, Huber to Oubre, Wishner to Vicknair, Zweig to LaBranche, Troxler
to Trosclair, and Zehringer to Zeringue (to name a few). Descendants of the colonists
still inhabit St. Charles, St. James and St. John the Baptist parishes. Throughout the
1800s, New Orleans was a major port of entry for German immigrants, many of whom went to
Texas or the mid-west. By 1850, however, there were more Germans than French in New
Orleans. They were bakers, blacksmiths, brewmasters, carpenters, dairymen, doctors,
engineers, farmers, florists, shoemakers and shopkeepers. Their cultural traditions
included love of family and religion. Their strong work ethic helped to shape the destiny
of Louisiana. Throughout the 20th century, German immigrants have continued to contribute
to the Delta region of Louisiana.